Otis Singleton
When it comes to maintaining an acoustic-electric guitar, changing the strings is essential for sound quality and performance. Worn-out strings can cause the guitar to sound flat and dull, and even damage the bridge and other components. While restringing, it is important to cut the old strings with wire cutters or a similar tool like pliers to ensure a clean break. However, some people prefer to simply work the strings back and forth until they snap. The new strings can then be inserted, and the excess trimmed with wire cutters to prevent any sharp ends from poking or scratching the player.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type of strings | Acoustic or electric guitar strings |
| String thickness | Affects tone, playability, and tuning |
| String coating | Coated strings prevent corrosion and last longer |
| String tension | Heavier strings increase tension and hold tuning better |
| String cutting tools | Wire cutters, pliers, scissors, arc welder, or breaking by hand |
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What You'll Learn
Using wire cutters
When using wire cutters, it is important to exercise caution to avoid injury. The sharp ends of the strings can poke or scratch you, so it is recommended to cut the strings at the bridge pins and then carefully unwind them from the tuning pegs. This process ensures that the strings are removed safely and efficiently.
There are various types of wire cutters available for cutting guitar strings. Some people prefer using diagonal cutters, which can provide a closer cut and minimise the sharp burr on the string end. Others suggest using nippers or pliers with built-in wire cutters. It is recommended to choose a cutter that suits your needs and ensures a precise cut.
While wire cutters are a popular choice, some people have suggested alternative methods for cutting guitar strings. One approach is to use a string winder/cutter/peg puller combo tool, which can be purchased from music stores. This combination tool offers convenience and functionality by allowing you to cut and wind strings with the same device. Additionally, some guitarists have mentioned using scissors in emergencies, although it is not advisable as it can damage the scissors.
Overall, using wire cutters is a practical and efficient way to cut guitar strings. Whether you choose standard wire cutters or specialised guitar wire cutters, it is important to prioritise safety and precision during the string-cutting process. By following the steps outlined above and selecting the appropriate tools, you can effectively cut guitar strings and maintain your instrument's optimal playability and sound quality.
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Using pliers
Some people prefer to use a regular pair of pliers with built-in wire cutters. Others use a hemostat from a fishing tackle box, which can be useful for making a nice kink and for the bendy-bendy procedure when restringing. However, it is important to be careful when using pliers, as an inept cut can result in damage to the guitar, as one person noted:
> "I used the cutter on a needlenose pliers. An inept cut + bang into headstock left a lovely 1/4 opaque spot on the nice satin ebony headstock. Imperfect tools are awkward, and awkward inevitably leads to problems."
Therefore, while pliers can be used to cut guitar strings, it is important to be cautious to avoid damage to the guitar. It may be preferable to use dedicated wire cutters, which are designed for this purpose and can provide a cleaner cut.
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Burning through strings
It is important to change guitar strings regularly for sound maintenance. Worn-out strings can cause guitars to sound flat and lose their tone. They can also damage the guitar's bridge and other components, which can affect intonation. Guitarists should change their strings at least once a month to keep their instrument sounding its best. Live performances require new strings because they provide a sound that is more vibrant and energetic.
When changing guitar strings, the first step is to loosen the tension of the old strings using tuning knobs or pegs until they become slack. The strings can then be cut and removed. Some people prefer to use wire cutters, while others simply work the strings back and forth until they break. It is important to be careful when using wire cutters, as the sharp ends of the strings can poke or scratch you.
Once the old strings have been removed, the guitar body, neck, and fretboard can be cleaned with a soft, dry cloth. The new strings can then be inserted. For acoustic guitars, the ball ends of the strings are inserted into the bridge pins, which are then pushed into the bridge until they click into place. The other end of the strings is threaded through the appropriate tuning pegs, ensuring they are correctly seated in the nut slots. For electric guitars, the non-ball-end of the string is poked through the rear of the guitar and up and over the bridge.
After the new strings are in place, the guitar can be tuned. Finally, the excess string can be trimmed off with wire cutters. Some people prefer to burn the ends of the strings slightly to prevent fraying.
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Wiggling back and forth until they break
When it comes to guitar strings, whether on an acoustic or electric guitar, it is important to routinely switch them out to maintain the instrument's performance, playability, and sound. Worn-out strings can cause the guitar to sound flat and lose its tone, and they can also damage the guitar's bridge and other components.
While some people use wire cutters or scissors to trim the excess string after installing new ones, others suggest that you don't need to cut them at all. Instead, you can wiggle the strings back and forth until they break. This method can be effective, especially if you have a cheap pair of wire cutters or are concerned about damaging your scissors.
By wiggling the strings back and forth, you can create enough friction and tension to cause the string to snap. This technique may take a bit more time and effort than simply cutting the strings, but it can be useful if you don't have the proper tools on hand or want to avoid any potential damage to your cutting implements.
It is worth noting that some guitarists have superstitions or personal beliefs regarding cutting certain strings, such as the G or high E strings. However, the majority of guitarists agree that the breaking or cutting of strings does not impact their performance or durability.
Overall, whether you choose to cut your guitar strings or wiggle them back and forth until they break, the important thing is to ensure that your guitar is restrung regularly with fresh strings to maintain optimal sound quality and performance.
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Using a string winder/cutter/peg puller combo
A string winder/cutter/peg puller combo is a handy tool for guitar players. It is a 3-in-1 multifunctional guitar maintenance tool that can be used for winding, cutting, and pulling out guitar strings. This tool is designed to fit virtually all guitars, basses, banjos, and mandolins. It is made of high-strength ABS hard plastic and stainless steel, making it durable and portable.
The string winder function speeds up the process of winding guitar strings. The string cutter cuts through old strings, making their removal quicker. The string cutter is designed without sharp edges but can cut strings of up to .060 gauge. The bridge pin puller simplifies the removal of stubborn pins without risking damage caused by other tools such as pliers.
The Pro-Winder is a high-quality example of this tool, with durable hardened steel wire cutters. It is designed to fit virtually all guitars, basses, banjos, and mandolins. It is ergonomically designed, making string changes easier.
This tool can be purchased at music stores or online for around $10.
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Frequently asked questions
You can use wire cutters, which are specifically designed to accurately cut guitar strings. You can also use regular pliers with built-in wire cutters, or needle-nose pliers. If you don't have access to any of these, you can simply wiggle the string back and forth until it breaks.
Cutting guitar strings is part of the process of replacing old strings. This should be done at least once a month to keep your instrument sounding its best.
Loosen the tension of the strings using the tuning knobs until they become slack. Then, cut the strings at the bridge pins using wire cutters.
